BASN PA60

BASN PA60 Portable USB-C DAC Headphone Amplifier User Manual

Model: PA60

1. Introduction

The BASN PA60 is a portable USB-C Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) and headphone amplifier designed to enhance audio quality from various devices. It features advanced decoding capabilities and multiple output options for a superior listening experience.

BASN PA60 Portable DAC Dongle

Image: The BASN PA60 portable DAC dongle, showcasing its compact design and high-resolution audio capabilities.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

  • BASN PA60 Portable USB-C DAC Headphone Amplifier
  • USB-C to USB-C Cable
  • USB-C to USB-A Adapter
  • User Manual (this document)
BASN PA60 with included cables

Image: The BASN PA60 device connected via its silver-plated USB-C cable to a laptop, with a USB-A adapter visible. This illustrates the included accessories.

3. Product Overview

The BASN PA60 features a compact aluminum alloy design with intuitive controls and versatile connectivity.

3.1 Device Layout

BASN PA60 DAC amp dongle with controls

Image: A detailed view of the BASN PA60 DAC amp dongle, highlighting its control buttons and ports.

  • USB-C Input: For connecting to source devices.
  • 3.5mm Single-Ended Output: Standard headphone jack.
  • 4.4mm Balanced Output: For balanced headphones, offering enhanced audio performance.
  • Volume Buttons (+/-): Adjusts audio output level.
  • Mode Button (M): Cycles through digital filters and UAC modes.
  • LED Indicator: Displays current UAC mode, gain setting, and sample rate.
BASN PA60 controls and ports

Image: Close-up of the BASN PA60 showing the USB-C input, 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs, and control buttons.

4. Setup Instructions

Follow these steps to set up your BASN PA60:

  1. Connect Headphones: Plug your headphones or In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) into either the 3.5mm single-ended or 4.4mm balanced output port on the BASN PA60.
  2. Connect to Source Device:
    • For devices with a USB-C port (e.g., Android phone, iPad, MacBook, Windows PC): Use the provided USB-C to USB-C cable to connect the PA60 to your device.
    • For devices with a USB-A port (e.g., desktop PC): Use the provided USB-C to USB-C cable with the USB-C to USB-A adapter to connect the PA60 to your device.
    • For devices with a Lightning port (e.g., iPhone): An additional Lightning to USB-C cable (not included) is required.
  3. Power On: The PA60 is driver-free and will power on automatically once connected to a compatible source device. The LED indicator will illuminate.
  4. Select UAC Mode (for gaming consoles): For broad compatibility with gaming consoles like Nintendo Switch and PS5, you may need to switch to UAC 1.0 mode. To do this, press and hold the 'M' button while connecting the PA60 to your device. Hold until the LED flashes red for UAC 1.0 mode.
BASN PA60 Driver-Free Plug & Play and UAC Mode Selection

Image: Diagram illustrating the driver-free plug-and-play functionality and the process for switching between UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0 modes for gaming consoles.

Note: The 3.5mm and 4.4mm jacks cannot be used simultaneously. For optimal performance with 4.4mm balanced output, use earphones with a native 4.4mm connector.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Volume Control

The BASN PA60 features a precise 60-step volume adjustment, independent of your source device's volume. This allows for fine-tuning audio levels without compromising sound quality.

  • Press the '+' button once to increase volume by 1 level.
  • Press and hold the '+' button for continuous volume increase.
  • Press the '-' button once to decrease volume by 1 level.
  • Press and hold the '-' button for continuous volume decrease.
BASN PA60 Stepless Smooth Volume Control

Image: The BASN PA60 with an arrow indicating its 60-level stepless smooth volume control, ensuring no detail is lost.

5.2 Gain Adjustment

The PA60 includes intelligent impedance detection to automatically select the appropriate gain setting (high or low) for your headphones or IEMs. You can also manually switch the gain mode.

  • To manually switch between high and low gain modes, long-press the 'M' button for 1-2 seconds.
  • The LED indicator will change color to show the current gain setting (refer to LED Indicator section for details).
BASN PA60 Switchable High & Low Gain

Image: Two BASN PA60 devices, one black and one blue, illustrating the switchable high and low gain feature with intelligent impedance detection.

5.3 Digital Filters

The PA60 offers 8 selectable digital filters to customize your sound profile.

  • To cycle through the filter modes, press the 'M' button.
  • The white light on the device will flash once for each mode, and twice for the eighth mode, to indicate the selected filter.
BASN PA60 8 Built-in Filters for Richer Sound

Image: A table listing the 8 built-in filter modes and their names, with the BASN PA60 device in the background.

5.4 LED Indicator Guide

The LED indicator provides visual feedback on the device's status:

UAC ModeGain SettingLED ColorSample Rate
UAC 1.0Low GainRed (Flashing)N/A
UAC 1.0High GainYellow (Flashing)N/A
UAC 2.0Low GainRedPCM 44.1k/48k
UAC 2.0Low GainGreenPCM 88.2k~768k
UAC 2.0Low GainBlueDSD
UAC 2.0High GainYellowPCM 44.1k/48k
UAC 2.0High GainCyanPCM 88.2k~768k
UAC 2.0High GainPurpleDSD
BASN PA60 LED Indicator Guide

Image: Diagram illustrating the LED indicator colors corresponding to UAC modes, gain settings, and audio sample rates.

6. Compatibility

The BASN PA60 offers extensive compatibility with various devices:

  • Android smartphones and tablets
  • iPhones and iPads (requires additional Lightning to USB-C cable)
  • MacBook and other macOS computers
  • Windows PC laptops and desktops (Windows 7/8/10/11)
  • Gaming Consoles: Nintendo Switch, PS5
BASN PA60 compatible with various devices

Image: The BASN PA60 connected to a Nintendo Switch and a PS5 controller, demonstrating its compatibility with gaming consoles.

7. Specifications

FeatureDetail
DAC ChipESS ES9039Q2M
USB ChipCT7601PR
Decoding CapabilityPCM 768kHz/32-bit, DSD512
Outputs3.5mm Single-Ended, 4.4mm Balanced
THD+N<0.00056%
S/N Ratio @ 32Ω122dB
Dynamic Range @ 32Ω122dB
Idle Noise<1.6uV (SE)
Output Power @ 32Ω2*125mW (SE), 2*240mW (BAL)
Frequency Range20Hz - 768kHz
Volume Control60-step independent adjustment
Gain SettingsHigh & Low (with intelligent impedance detection)
Digital Filters8 selectable modes
UAC SupportUAC 1.0 & UAC 2.0
Enclosure MaterialAluminum Alloy
Dimensions53mm x 20mm x 15mm (approx. 2" x 0.8" x 0.6")
Weight17g (approx. 0.6 oz)
BASN PA60 Detailed Specifications

Image: A comprehensive table detailing the technical specifications of the BASN PA60, including DAC chip, decoding support, and output power.

8. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your BASN PA60, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

  • No Sound Output:
    • Ensure the PA60 is securely connected to both your source device and headphones.
    • Check the volume level on both the PA60 and your source device.
    • Verify that the correct audio output device is selected on your computer or smartphone settings.
    • Confirm that the 3.5mm and 4.4mm outputs are not used simultaneously.
  • Low Volume or Distortion:
    • Adjust the gain setting on the PA60 (long-press 'M' button) to match your headphones' impedance.
    • Ensure your audio source is playing high-quality audio files.
    • Check for damaged cables or connectors.
  • Device Not Recognized by PC/Console:
    • Try switching the UAC mode (press and hold 'M' button while connecting for UAC 1.0).
    • Ensure your operating system is up to date.
    • Try connecting to a different USB port or a different device to isolate the issue.
  • LED Indicator Not Lighting Up:
    • Verify the PA60 is properly connected to a powered source device.
    • Ensure the source device is turned on and providing power via its USB port.

9. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your BASN PA60:

  • Keep the device clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
  • Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the device, as this will void the warranty.
  • Store the device in a safe place when not in use to prevent physical damage.

10. Warranty and Support

The BASN PA60 comes with a 12-month warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use.

For warranty claims, technical support, or any inquiries, please contact BASN customer service through the retailer where you purchased the product or visit the official BASN website for contact information.

Important: Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty service.

11. Product Videos

11.1 Portable USB-C DAC Headphone Amplifier 3.5 / 4.4

Video: An overview of the BASN PA60 Portable USB-C DAC Headphone Amplifier, demonstrating its features, connectivity, and how it enhances audio quality for both 3.5mm and 4.4mm headphones.